Australian comedian and satirist Barry Humphries, best known for his iconic character Dame Edna Everage, has passed away at the age of 89 (CNN). Humphries created the character of Dame Edna in the 1950s, and she quickly became a beloved figure in Australian comedy. With her bouffant hair, over-the-top makeup, and outrageous outfits, Dame Edna was a satire of the upper class, and her raucous humor provided a much-needed release in uptight post-war Australia.
Humphries began his career performing cabaret shows in Sydney, and he quickly gained a following with his irreverent humor and witty social commentary (Variety). He was known for his sharp tongue and willingness to push boundaries, and his work frequently addressed taboo subjects such as sexuality and politics.
In addition to his work as a comedian, Humphries was also an accomplished actor and writer. He wrote several books, including an autobiography titled “My Life as Me” (The New York Times), and he appeared in a number of films and television shows throughout his career.
Perhaps most famously, Humphries provided the voice for the character Bruce in the hit Pixar film “Finding Nemo” (WDW News Today). His distinctive voice and signature style made him a natural fit for the role, and he brought a touch of humor and humanity to the character that made him an instant fan favorite.
Throughout his long career, Humphries won countless awards and accolades for his work, including a Tony Award for his one-man show “Dame Edna: The Royal Tour” (AP News). He was also named an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1982 for his contributions to the arts (The Guardian).
News of Humphries’ death has been met with an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow comedians around the world. Many have paid tribute to his wit, humor, and irreverent spirit, calling him a “one-of-a-kind” and an “icon” (Reuters). Humphries’ influence on the world of comedy is immeasurable, and his legacy will live on through his many unforgettable characters and performances.
